PAIS is an association member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), and the Council for American Private Education (CAPE).

The Palmetto Association of Independent Schools is the recognized voice of independent education in South Carolina and is the direct official link to the National Association of Independent Schools and to the Southern Association of Independent Schools. This recognition is based upon the rigorous standards observed by PAIS in accreditation requirements and procedures, governance, tax exempt status, regular financial audits, nondiscriminatory policies and practices, commitment to diversity and education quality.